Nancy Jones in June 2025.
In a heartwarming tribute to a country music legend, George Jones’ wife Nancy joined forces with Nashville’s iconic Ryman Auditorium to honor her late husband. On Tuesday, June 3rd, an eager crowd gathered to witness the unveiling of George’s statue, a masterpiece that now graces the Icon Walk of the Ryman, one of country music’s most hallowed venues. As Nancy Jones stood before the gathering of family, friends, and fans, she expressed her joy and pride, noting that George “would be smiling about it.” Nancy, 76, has long been dedicated to keeping George’s memory alive, and this ceremony was yet another step in her heartfelt mission.
Crafting the life-size bronze memorial was a meticulous process. With Nancy’s keen involvement, Mississippi artist Ben Watts brought George’s likeness to life, depicting him in the prime of his career—his early 60s, a special era for Nancy as it marked the decade following their marriage in 1983. “I think that’s what he would’ve wanted,” Nancy shared, reflecting on her husband’s enduring spirit. The statue portrays George Jones as fans remember him: hair perfectly styled, signature scimitar sideburns, snakeskin boots, and a dazzling Nudie suit adorned with a broad smile. Nancy ensured the inclusion of personal touches like George’s favorite custom guitar strap on his shoulder, cradling a tailored acoustic guitar. Additionally, the bronze features the glasses that became synonymous with George’s later performances, adding authenticity to the heartfelt tribute.
Among the spiritual company of country icons such as Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, Bill Monroe, and Little Jimmy Dickens, George’s statue solidifies his legacy on the very stage he loved. Revered as the Mother Church of Country Music, the Ryman served as the Grand Ole Opry’s home from 1943 to 1974, earning its status as a cornerstone of country music history. In her speeches, Nancy touched on George’s personal struggles with addiction, highlighting the sanctuary the Ryman provided. “It was the only place that I didn’t have to worry about. The Mother Church of Country Music was a sacred place where George never got drunk,” she recounted, her voice tinged with nostalgia and gratitude.
Joining Nancy in her tribute was country musician and close friend, Jamey Johnson. With humor, Johnson reminisced about George’s legendary escapades, including his infamous liquor store trip on a lawnmower after being stripped of his car keys. “Some stories sounded made up, but everything about George was larger than life,” Johnson said, capturing the essence of the man behind the music.
George Jones’ voice and influence remain timeless despite his turbulent life and brief six-year marriage to Tammy Wynette. His numerous chart-topping hits, such as “White Lightning,” “Golden Ring,” and “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes,” continue to resonate within the music community. His illustrious career was crowned by his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1992, cementing his place as a true country music icon. Recent tributes affirm George’s ongoing legacy, with stars like Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, and Luke Combs celebrating his contributions during the Opry’s centennial year. Brooks, introducing one of George’s classics, declared him the greatest country singer of all time, a sentiment echoed by many.
Nancy’s emotional reflection on watching the tribute from home underscores her love and enduring connection to George’s legacy. “I just sat there and cried about it. I’m glad I didn’t go because I would’ve looked crazy out there bawling my eyes out,” she confessed, her voice full of emotion. Time has allowed Nancy to reconnect with George’s music, and she’s now working towards resurrecting the George Jones Museum, which closed in 2021 due to the pandemic. “I don’t want people to forget him,” Nancy emphasized passionately. Her determination remains unwavering: “He was just a perfect person to me. I love him. I did, and I still do, and I always will.”
The sentiment surrounding the unveiling of George’s statue was more than just a commemoration; it was a celebration of a larger-than-life artist whose influence and legacy continue to inspire. With Nancy’s unwavering dedication, George’s memory will undoubtedly shine on in Nashville and beyond.
